U.S. patent application number 14/094421 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-03 for lock.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bradken Resources Pty Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Bradken Resources Pty Limited. Invention is credited to Chad LIZDENIS, Jason LUNN, Joel Nelio MARTINELLI.
Application Number | 20140186105 14/094421 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47258169 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140186105 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MARTINELLI; Joel Nelio ; et
al. |
July 3, 2014 |
LOCK
Abstract
A lock assembly comprising a locking element having; a body
having a first locking axis; at least one tab movable relative to
the body, the tab movable between a retracted position and an
extended position relative to the first locking axis; a locking
surface having at least one retaining element; wherein the lock
assembly is operative to adopt a locked condition where the at
least one tab engages with a respective one of the at least one
retaining element to prevent relative movement between the locking
element and the locking surface in at least one direction of the
first locking axis.
Inventors: |
MARTINELLI; Joel Nelio;
(Merewether, AU) ; LIZDENIS; Chad; (North
Rothbury, AU) ; LUNN; Jason; (Lambton, AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bradken Resources Pty Limited |
Mayfield West |
|
AU |
|
|
Assignee: |
Bradken Resources Pty
Limited
Mayfield West
AU
|
Family ID: |
47258169 |
Appl. No.: |
14/094421 |
Filed: |
December 2, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/AU2012/000618 |
Jun 1, 2012 |
|
|
|
14094421 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
403/320 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 3/58 20130101; Y10T
403/589 20150115; E02F 9/2883 20130101; F16G 15/06 20130101; E02F
9/2841 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
403/320 |
International
Class: |
E02F 9/28 20060101
E02F009/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 2, 2011 |
AU |
2011902169 |
Claims
1. A lock assembly comprising: a locking element having; a body
having a first locking axis; at least one tab movable relative to
the body, the tab movable between a retracted position and an
extended position relative to the first locking axis; a locking
surface having at least one retaining element; wherein the lock
assembly is operative to adopt a locked condition where the at
least one tab engages with a respective one of the at least one
retaining element to prevent relative movement between the locking
element and the locking surface in at least one direction of the
first locking axis; and wherein the lock assembly is operative to
change from the locked condition to an unlocked condition by a
first relative movement between the locking element and the locking
surface, said first relative movement causing said at least one tab
to move towards its retracted position.
2. The lock assembly according to claim 1, wherein in the locked
condition, the at least one tab is biased towards its extended
position.
3. The lock assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking
surface is formed on an interior surface defining a cavity, and
wherein the locking element is disposed within the cavity when the
lock assembly is in the locked condition.
4. The lock assembly according to claim 3, wherein at least one of
the at least one tab and locking surface includes a camming surface
arranged to cause movement of the at least one tab towards its
retracted position during said first relative movement.
5. The lock assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first
relative movement includes relative rotation between the locking
element and the locking surface about the first locking axis.
6. The lock assembly according to claim 1, wherein the lock
assembly is operative to adopt the locked condition from an
unlocked condition by a second relative movement between the
locking element and the locking surface.
7. The lock assembly according to claim 6, wherein the at least one
locking tab is caused to move towards the retracted position during
said second relative movement.
8. The lock assembly according to claim 7, wherein at least one of
the at least one tab and locking surface includes a camming surface
arranged to cause movement of the at least one tab towards its
retracted position during said second relative movement.
9. The lock assembly according to claim 7, wherein the wherein the
second relative movement includes relative rotation between the
locking element and the locking surface about the first locking
axis.
10. The lock assembly according to claim 7, wherein the second
relative movement includes relative translation between the locking
element and the locking surface along the first locking axis.
11. The lock assembly according to claim 2, wherein the locking
surface includes one or more channels that permit location and/or
removal of the locking element in the cavity whilst the at least
one tab is in a substantially extended position.
12. The lock assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one tab is arranged to move relative to the lock element body along
a movement axis between the extended and retracted positions, the
movement axis being generally perpendicular to the first axis and
offset from the first axis.
13. The lock assembly according to claim 2, further comprising at
least one biasing member engagable with the at least one tab to
bias the or each tab into the extended position, wherein the at
least one biasing member is one or more elastomeric members which
are engagable with a rear surface of the respective tabs and which
are arranged to compress on movement of the at least one tab from
its extended position towards its retracted position.
14. The lock assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking
surface is formed on a retaining member.
15. A locking system comprising: a housing having a passage; a
retaining member received in the passage of the housing; and at
least one lock assembly comprising a locking element having; a body
having a first locking axis; at least one tab movable relative to
the body, the tab movable between a retracted position and an
extended position relative to the first locking axis; a locking
surface having at least one retaining element; wherein the lock
assembly is operative to adopt a locked condition where the at
least one tab engages with a respective one of the at least one
retaining element to prevent relative movement between the locking
element and the locking surface in at least one direction of the
first locking axis; and herein the lock assembly is operative to
change from the locked condition to an unlocked condition by a
first relative movement between the locking element and the locking
surface, said first relative movement causing said at least one tab
to move towards its retracted position, the lock assembly being
disposed in at least part of the passage; wherein in use, the
locking element of the lock assembly retains the retaining member
in the passage of the housing.
16. The locking system according to claim 15, wherein the retaining
member retains a component wherein the component is any one of a
shroud, tooth, adaptor or coupling for a ground engaging tool.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of International
Application No. PCT/AU2012/000618, filed Jun. 1, 2012, which claims
the priority of Australian Application No. 2011902169, filed Jun.
2, 2011, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to lock assemblies,
components for lock assemblies and lock systems which include a
lock assembly and/or lock components. The locks of the disclosure
have particular application for use in land based excavating
equipment to retain a member such as a wear member or rigging to
excavating equipment and the disclosure is herein disclosed in that
context . However, the locks of the disclosure have broader
application, for example for waterborne excavators, such as
dredgers, or securing liners to mineral processing equipment and
accordingly it is to be appreciated that the disclosure is not
limited to that application.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Excavating buckets or other digging devices or equipment are
typically subject to harsh conditions. Excavating buckets are
generally used in various digging and excavation operations.
Digging devices typically experience large forces during digging
and excavation operations.
[0004] Excavation teeth may be provided on the digging edge of the
digging devices. Each excavation tooth is formed of a number of
parts, commonly a point, an adapter and a lock. The adapter is
typically fitted to the digging device and the point fits over the
adapter and is retained in place by the lock. In some instances one
or more intermediate parts may be also included between the point
and the adapter.
[0005] The reason that the excavation tooth is formed of a number
of parts is to avoid having to discard the entire tooth when only
parts of the tooth, in particular the ground engaging part of the
tooth (i.e. the point) is worn or broken.
[0006] On some digging devices, shrouds are also attached to the
digging lip of the device to protect the digging lip edge from
wear. Once worn, the shrouds can be removed and discarded and a new
replacement shroud attached. This reduces the need to replace the
whole device if the lip edge became worn, which would be much more
costly than replacing just the shrouds. The shrouds typically
comprise a base member that fits around a portion of the lip edge,
a wear member that fits over the base member and lock for locking
the wear member to the base member and thus to lip, but which also
allows the wear member to be removed once worn. The shrouds may be
disposed along the entire length of the lip edge or be disposed
between excavation teeth that are attached to the lip.
[0007] In other digging applications, such as dragline excavating
systems, rigging is required to interconnect the dragline buckets
to a crane to operate the buckets. Again this rigging which
includes various components such as chains, ropes, links and
spreader bars, need to be connected together and connected to the
dragline bucket. This requires the use of coupling elements such as
shackles which include locking arrangements such as locking pins
and the like which are retained in place by locks. Again these
components are subject to very harsh operational conditions and
accordingly the components need to be designed to operate in such
harsh conditions.
[0008] In heavy engineering applications, such as those discussed
above, the components are often subjected to large impact forces.
They are also subjected to the ingress of dirt, fines, mud, water
and other intrusive materials that can affect mechanical devices.
Accordingly, an ongoing problem associated with such equipment is
in the operation of the mechanical locks and in particular with
their ease of installation, reliability, and ability to unlock
after heavy use, wear, and intrusion by foreign materials.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In some embodiments, there is disclosed a lock assembly
comprising: a locking element having; a body having a first locking
axis; at least one tab movable relative to the body between a
retracted position and an extended position relative to the first
locking axis; and a locking surface having at least one retaining
element; wherein the lock assembly is operative to adopt a locked
condition where the at least one tab engages with a respective one
of the at least one retaining element to prevent relative movement
between the locking element and the locking surface in at least one
direction of the first locking axis.
[0010] In some embodiments, a locking element is disclosed having a
body having a first locking axis, at least one tab movable relative
to the body between a retracted and an extended position relative
to the first locking axis. In one form, the tab is arranged to
translate relative to the body along a movement axis and that
movement axis may be offset from the first locking axis. In another
form, it may be radial relative to the first locking axis so that
the movement axis intersects the first locking axis. In one form,
the tabs may pivot relative to the body between its extended and
retracted configurations.
[0011] In some embodiments, also disclosed is a component that
incorporates a locking surface arranged to receive a locking member
of any one of the above forms. The locking surface may be
integrally formed with the component or may be formed on a
retaining member which is fitted to the component. In some
embodiments, the component is part of an excavating machine such as
a wear member such as a point or shroud, an adaptor, bucket lip, or
part of rigging such as a shackle or link, or part of a retaining
system such as a locking pin.
[0012] In some embodiments, a locking system is disclosed that
comprises a component having a passage; a retaining member
receivable in the passage of the component in a locking position;
and a lock assembly according to any form disclosed herein disposed
in at least part of the passage; wherein in use, the locking
element of the lock assembly retains the retaining member in the
passage of the housing.
[0013] Embodiments of the locking assemblies, elements, and systems
have particular application for use in excavating equipment and
allow for hammerless installation and removal of the locking
elements and good retention performance in the operation of the
equipment.
[0014] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not
intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative
aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further
aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by
reference to the drawings and the following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIGS. 1A and 1B are exploded perspective views of a lock
assembly according to the first embodiment.
[0016] FIGS. 2A to 2H illustrate a locking and unlocking sequence
of the lock assembly according to the first embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 2A illustrates the locking ring and locking element
before assembly according to the first embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 2B illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2A, with
the locking element inside the cavity of the locking ring, and with
the tabs of the locking element disposed in the channels of the
locking ring.
[0019] FIG. 2C illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2B, with
the locking element rotated slightly so that the tabs are slightly
retracted.
[0020] FIG. 2D illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2C, with
the locking element rotated so that the tabs are retracted and
located between the channels and the retaining elements.
[0021] FIG. 2E illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2D, with
the locking assembly in the locked condition, with the tabs
extended and engaging with respective retaining elements.
[0022] FIG. 2F illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2E, with
the locking element rotated slightly so the tabs are slightly
retracted.
[0023] FIG. 2G illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2F, with
the locking element rotated so that the tabs are retracted and
located between the retaining elements and the channels.
[0024] FIG. 2H illustrates the locking assembly of FIG. 2G with the
locking element rotated so that the tabs are disposed in the
channels of the locking ring.
[0025] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a locking element according
to the second embodiment with a locking ring.
[0026] FIGS. 4A and 4B are exploded top and bottom perspective
views of the locking element in FIG. 3.
[0027] FIGS. 5A to 5C illustrate sectioned top views of the locking
element of FIG. 3 with the tabs in various positions.
[0028] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a locking element according
to the third embodiment with a locking ring.
[0029] FIGS. 7A and 7B are exploded top and bottom perspective
views of the locking element in FIG. 6.
[0030] FIGS. 8A to 8B illustrate sectioned top views of the locking
element of FIG. 6 with the tabs in various positions.
[0031] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a lock system
comprising two lock assemblies and a lock pin.
[0032] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an assembled lock system in
FIG. 9.
[0033] FIG. 11 is a sectioned side view of the assembled lock
system in FIG. 10.
[0034] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a shackle
assembly having a locking system.
[0035] FIG. 13 is a top view of the shackle assembly of FIG.
12.
[0036] FIG. 14 is a side view of the shackle assembly of FIG.
12.
[0037] FIG. 15 is a sectioned top view along P-P in FIG. 14.
[0038] FIG. 16 is a sectioned side view along R-R in FIG. 13.
[0039] FIG. 17 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a shroud
assembly having a locking system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not
meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other
changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of
the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood
that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described
herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged,
substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated
herein.
[0041] This disclosure is directed generally to locks for
excavating equipment and large scale mining operations. In some
embodiments of such equipment, heavy duty shackles are secured with
a shackle pin to connect components, for example, in a dragline. It
is important that the shackle is securely locked in position and
remains so during a period of robust service and when exposed to
harsh conditions including vibration , impact, corrosion and
abrasion. After a period of service, components must be replaced,
and in a mine location there is a need to make such replacement
with minimum downtime of the expensive equipment, and with ease,
speed and safety. There is a need to have lock assemblies which can
retain the locking pins in position and operate effectively under
these harsh conditions.
[0042] Disclosed in some embodiments is a lock assembly comprising:
a locking element having; a body having a first locking axis; at
least one tab movable relative to the body, the tab movable between
a retracted position and an extended position relative to the first
locking axis; a locking surface having at least one retaining
element; wherein the lock assembly is operative to adopt a locked
condition where the at least one tab engages with a respective one
of the at least one retaining element to prevent relative movement
between the locking element and the locking surface in at least one
direction of the first locking axis.
[0043] In some forms of the lock assembly, the at least one tab is
biased towards its extended position when in the locked
condition.
[0044] In some embodiments, the locking surface is formed on an
interior surface defining a cavity, and wherein the locking element
is disposed within the cavity when the lock assembly is in the
locked condition.
[0045] Disclosed in some embodiments, the lock assembly is
operative to change from the locked condition to an unlocked
condition by a first relative movement between the locking element
and the locking surface, the first relative movement causing the at
least one tab to move towards its retracted position. At least one
of the at least one tab and locking surface may include a camming
surface arranged to cause movement of the at least one tab towards
its retracted position during the first relative movement.
[0046] In some embodiments, the first relative movement includes
relative rotation between the locking element and the locking
surface about the first locking axis.
[0047] In some forms, the lock assembly is operative to adopt the
locked condition from an unlocked condition by a second relative
movement between the locking element and the locking surface. In
some forms, the at least one locking tab is caused to move towards
the retracted position during said second relative movement. In at
least one form, a camming surface is provided and arranged to cause
movement of the at least one tab towards its retracted position
during the second relative movement.
[0048] In at least some forms, the second relative movement
includes relative rotation between the locking element and the
locking surface about the first locking axis. In some forms, the
second relative movement includes relative translation between the
locking element and the locking surface along the first locking
axis.
[0049] In some forms, the locking surface includes one or more
channels that permit location and/or removal of the locking element
in the cavity while the at least one tab is in a substantially
extended position. In some arrangements, these channels extend
generally axially.
[0050] In some embodiments, the at least one locking tab is biased
towards the extended position. In one form, an elastomeric member
is disposed within the lock body and is operative to bias the
locking tab into the extended position.
[0051] In some embodiments, the locking surface is disposed on a
retaining member which in turn, in use is arranged to be fixed to a
component, such as a component of excavating equipment. In another
form, the locking surface is integrally formed in a surface of the
component. For example, the locking surface may define a cavity
that forms part of a cast, or otherwise formed, component of the
excavating equipment.
[0052] In some embodiments, also disclosed is a locking element for
a locking assembly in any form disclosed above. Also disclosed is a
component which incorporates a locking surface arranged to receive
a locking member of the above form. The locking surface may be
integrally formed with the component or may be formed on a
retaining member which is fitted to the component. In some
embodiments, the component is part of an excavating machine such as
a wear member such as a point or shroud, an adaptor, bucket lip, or
part of the rigging such as a shackle or link, or part of a
retaining system such as a locking pin.
[0053] Also disclosed in some embodiments is a locking system
comprising: a housing having a passage; a retaining member received
in the passage of the housing; and a lock assembly according to any
form disclosed above, disposed in at least part of the passage;
wherein in use, the locking element of the lock assembly retains a
retaining member in the passage of the housing.
[0054] As illustrated in the figures, some illustrative embodiments
of locking assemblies for excavation equipment allow for easy
installation and release and reliable operation.
[0055] FIGS. 1A and 1B are exploded perspective views of a lock
assembly according to a first embodiment.
[0056] FIG. 1B illustrates a lock assembly 1 comprising the locking
element 3 of FIG. 1A and a retaining member which in the
illustrative form is a locking ring 7 of FIG. 1B. The locking ring
7 incorporates a cavity 23 having an interior locking surface 5 and
the locking element is received in the cavity and engagable with
the locking surface as will be described in more detail below.
[0057] In the illustrative form, the locking element 3 has a body 4
which is generally cylindrical having an axis CL which forms a
first locking axis of the body 4 and about which the locking
element is arranged to rotate in use. The locking element 3, as
illustrated, also has three tabs 9 movable between an extended
position and a retracted position relative to the first locking
axis. The locking surface 5 has three retaining elements 11, which
when engaged with the respective tabs 9, prevent relative movement
between the locking element 3 and the locking surface 5 in at least
one direction of the first locking axis. While the illustrative
form shows three tabs, it will be appreciated that the locking
assembly may include more or fewer tabs depending on requirements
and space constraints.
[0058] The locking element 3, as illustrated, will now be described
in detail. The locking element 3 is comprised of a flat
cylindrical, "puck" like body 4, advantageously made of metal. The
top surface 13 is provided with a drive portion in the form socket
15 for engagement with a wrench or other drive tool. Although the
illustrated socket is of a substantially square shape, it is to be
appreciated that other socket shapes or configurations of drive
portions (such as spigots) may be used. A bottom surface 14 of the
element 3 provides a bearing surface for the element and retains
other components of the locking element 3.
[0059] Along the peripheral side 17 of the body 4, the tabs 9,
which typically are also made of metal, are biased to project in an
extended position as generally shown in FIG. 1A. The tabs 9 are
movable to a retracted position, wherein the tabs 9 are displaced
inwardly towards or into the peripheral side 17. In the locking
element 3 of FIG. 1A, the tabs 9 translate between the extended
position and the retracted position along a movement axis that is
generally perpendicular to the first locking axis, but chordal
(i.e. it does not intersect the movement axis but rather forms a
chord to the cylindrical body). The direction of the movement axis
disposed in this chordal arrangement may advantageously be
geometrically related with the camming surfaces as described
later.
[0060] The tabs 9 are provided with a first cammed surface 19. The
first cammed surface 19 is provided such that when the locking
element 3 is rotated clockwise (as seen looking down at top surface
13), the first cammed surface 19 will be the leading surface of the
tabs 9. The first cammed surface 19, on rotation of the locking
element 3 in the clockwise direction, advantageously cooperates
with the locking surface 5, to move the tab 9 towards the retracted
position. This will be described later.
[0061] The locking element 3 includes one or more biasing members
within the body which are arranged to bias the tabs into their
extended position. In the illustrative form, the biasing members
are in the form of an elastomeric block 21 which is secured behind
the back surface tabs 9. Compression of the elastomeric block
allows the tabs to move towards their retracted position while
imparting a biasing force on to the tabs to return to their
extended position as the block tends to move back to its natural
uncompressed state. An advantage of this arrangement is that the
surface interface between the tabs and the block is effectively
sealed thereby reducing the susceptibility of fines building up in
the locking element that would prevent movement of the tabs to
their retracted position. However, it is to be appreciated that
other forms of biasing may be used, including leaf or helical
springs.
[0062] The locking surface 5 in FIG. 1B will now be described in
detail. In the illustrated embodiment showing FIG. 1 B, the locking
surface 5 is provided within a cylindrical cavity 23 of the locking
ring 7. It is to be appreciated the locking surface 5 is not
limited to being disposed on a locking ring 7, and may be disposed
inside other shaped members. An opening 24 is provided at the base
of the cavity 23 to provide passage for other members to bear
against the bottom surface 14 of the locking element 3, when the
locking assembly is in the locked condition.
[0063] The cylindrical cavity 23 is sized to snugly fit the
cylindrical body 4 of the locking element 3 to reduce the build up
of dirt, fines and other loose material in the locking assembly 1.
The locking surface 5 is provided with three evenly spaced recesses
25, to match the respective tabs 9 of the locking element 3.
Advantageously, the geometry of the tabs 9 matching the recesses 25
would reduce space for the build up of foreign matter.
[0064] The retaining element 11 forms at least one wall of the
recess 25, which when engaged with tabs 9, prevent relative
movement of the locking element and the locking surface along the
first axis. In the illustrative form, these retaining elements are
the upper under surfaces defining the recesses 25 which are in
facing relation with the tabs when located in those recesses.
[0065] Each recess 25 also includes a second cammed surface 27.
When the locking element 3 is rotated clockwise relative to the
locking surface, the second cammed surface 27 cooperates with the
first cammed surface 19 to move the tabs 9 towards the retracted
position. It is to be appreciated however, that such a camming
action does not require both the first and second cammed surface,
and that one cammed surface on one component may cooperate with a
respective opposing portion to facilitate camming action for
movement of the tabs 9.
[0066] The locking surface 5 is also provided with three channels
29 extending longitudinally along the cavity 23. The channels 29
permit the location of the locking element 3 into the cavity 23
while the tabs 9 are in an extended position. This allows easy
insertion of the locking element 3 into the cavity 23, without tabs
9 interfering or providing undue friction. The channels 29 extend
down the cavity 23 sufficiently to allow uninhibited insertion of
the locking element 3 into the cavity along the first locking axis
to a position, such that the tabs 9 are axially aligned to the
recesses 25. From this position, the tabs 9 can enter the recesses
25 and engage the locking elements by relative rotation of the
locking element 3 and the locking surface 5 without further
relative movement along the first locking axis.
[0067] The channels 29 are also provided with a third cammed
surface 31. This surface facilitates movement of the tabs 9 towards
a retracted position in the same manner as the second cammed
surface 27.
[0068] The locking and unlocking sequence of the lock assembly
according to the first embodiment will now be described with
reference to FIGS. 2A to 2H.
[0069] FIG. 2A illustrates the locking ring 7 having a locking
surface 5 before assembly with the locking element 3. To assemble
lock assembly 1, the tabs 9 of the locking element 3 are aligned
with respective channels 29, and the cylindrical body 4 inserted
into the cavity 23 of the locking ring 7.
[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the channels 29 provide clearance
for the tabs 9 while the locking element 3 is being inserted. The
locking element 3 is positioned into the cavity 23 to a position
such that the tabs 9 and the recesses 25 are on the same
perpendicular plane to the first locking axis with the tabs 9 in
the channels 29, and the recesses 25 angularly displaced from the
channels 29 in the cylindrical cavity 23.
[0071] For ease of reference, the relative rotation of the locking
element 3 with the locking surface 5 is described in terms of
clockwise rotation around the first locking axis when seen from a
top view (as illustrated). As a reference, the angular position of
the locking element 3 relative to the locking surface as shown in
FIG. 2B is assigned a zero position. The relative angular
displacement described is for ease of reference for this described
embodiment, and it will be appreciated that other embodiments will
not be limited to specific angular displacements described
below.
[0072] To lock the locking assembly from the position shown in FIG.
2B, the locking element 3 of the illustrative form is rotated such
that the tabs 9 engage the retaining elements 11. To achieve this,
a wrench, or other suitable drive tool is engaged with the socket
15 to drive the locking element 3 clockwise.
[0073] FIG. 2C illustrates that as the body 3 rotates from its zero
position, the first cammed surface 19 of the tab cooperates with
the third cammed surface 31 of the channels 29 to provide a camming
action to move the tabs 9 towards the retracted position.
[0074] This camming action moves the tabs into a position as
illustrated in FIG. 2D where the tabs are retracted substantially
fully to be at least almost flush with the lock element body. In
FIG. 2D, the locking element 3 and the locking surface are
angularly displaced by approximately 30 degrees clockwise, with the
tabs 9 retracted and angularly located between the channels 29 and
the recesses 25.
[0075] The locking element 3 is further rotated until the tabs 9
are angularly located with the recesses 25, whereby the tabs 9 are
free to move under the biasing force of the elastomeric block
towards the extended position and engage with the retaining
elements 11. This is the locked condition and is best illustrated
in FIG. 2E where the locking element 3 and locking surface 5 are
displaced by 60 degrees. The tabs 9 engage with the retaining
elements 11 to prevent the locking element 3 from moving relative
to the locking surface 5 along the first locking axis. In this
locked condition, the tabs 9 substantially occupy the recesses 25,
thereby reducing void space where foreign material may build
up.
[0076] To unlock the locking element 3 from the locking surface,
the locking element 3 is further rotated relative to the locking
surface 5. This movement is shown in FIGS. 2F-2H.
[0077] As the body 3 is rotated, the first cammed surface 19 of the
tab cooperates with the second cammed surface 27 of the recess 25
to provide a camming action to move tabs 9 towards the retracted
position. FIG. 2F illustrates the locking element 3 displaced by 75
degrees from the locking surface 5, whereby the tabs 9 a slightly
moved towards the retracted position.
[0078] Throughout the movement of the tabs 9 between the extended
and retracted positions, their respective movement axes are chordal
to the axis of rotation of the locking element 3. This is
advantageous as the movement axes are substantially coaxial to a
normal axis of the first and/or second cammed surfaces. This
reduces friction and off axis forces between the tabs 9 and the
body 4 of the locking element, thereby preventing binding and
wear.
[0079] Further rotation causes the tabs 9 to further retract as
illustrated in FIG. 2G, whereby the locking element 3 is displaced
by 90 degrees, and the tabs 9 are angularly displaced between the
recesses 25 and the channels 29. It is possible in this unlocked
condition to extract the body 4 of the locking element from the
cavity 23. This may be achieved by pulling, pushing or levering the
body from the locking surface 4.
[0080] Alternatively the body 4 of the locking element 3 can be
rotated further, as illustrated in FIG. 2H where the locking
element 3 is displaced by 120 degrees from the locking surface 5.
The locking element 3 is positioned so that the tabs 9 are now
positioned within the channels 29. Advantageously, the tabs 9 have
clearance to move towards the extended position, as well as being
provided uninhibited movement along the channels 29. This allows
for easier removal of the locking element 3 from the cavity 23 as
there is reduced friction between the tabs 9 and the cavity 23.
[0081] Advantageously, the lock assembly 1 does not require the
application of axial forces or bias along the first locking axis
when locking or unlocking the lock assembly. In known prior art
locks, it was necessary to apply axial force and/or axially move
the locking element when locking or unlocking. A consequence of
this is the requirement to provide a void or clearance to allow for
axial movement, thereby providing a space for foreign material to
collect and jam the locking assembly. By providing a lock assembly
1 with self occupying components, and with minimal voids, it
reduces the chance of foreign material intruding and jamming the
assembly.
[0082] A second embodiment of the locking element will now be
described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5C. The locking element 103
has tabs 109, that has a movement axis extending radially from the
first locking axis of the body 104 of the locking element 103.
FIGS. 5A to 5C illustrate various positions of the tabs 109 as they
move radially between their extended and retracted positions.
[0083] A third embodiment of the locking element will now be
described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8C. The locking element 203
has tabs 209, that are pivotally attached by pivots 210 to the body
204. The pivots 210 allow the tabs to swing outwardly between an
extended position and a retracted position. A resilient element 221
is provided for each tab 209 to bias the tabs to the extended
position. FIGS. 8A to 8C illustrate various positions of the tabs
209 from an extended position to a retracted position.
[0084] A further embodiment of the locking element (not shown) may
have tabs with additional camming surfaces on the tabs. In one
form, the additional camming surfaces may allow the lock assembly
to be locked and unlocked in both directions (i.e. clockwise and
anti-clockwise when viewed from the top view). A further
alternative is to have camming surfaces on the underside of the
tabs (i.e. the face when viewing towards the bottom surface 14 of
the body), thereby allowing the lock element 3 to be push fit into
the cavity 23 of the lock ring 7. This allows locking of the lock
element 3 to the lock surface 5 without relative rotation of the
lock element 3 and the lock surface 5. To unlock, the lock element
3 may be rotated to move the tabs towards the retracted position as
described in the above embodiments.
[0085] A lock system will now be described with reference to FIGS.
9 to 11. Referring to FIG. 9, the lock system 302 comprises two
lock assemblies 1 as previously described, and a retaining member
in the form of a lock pin 306. The lock pin 308 has opposing end
surfaces 308 for abutment with the bottom surface 14 of the locking
element 3, thereby retaining the lock pin 308 in position when the
lock assembly is in a locked condition.
[0086] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate the lock system 302 assembled,
with the lock assemblies 1 in a locked condition to retain the lock
pin 306. As best illustrated in FIG. 11, the system 302 is oriented
such that end surfaces 308 are in abutment with bottom surface 14,
thereby preventing the lock pin 306 from axial movement without
imparting movement of one or the other of the locking element along
their respective first locking axis. Further when in the locked
condition as shown, the end surface 308 and bottom surface 14 are
in contact without providing any significant void or space for
foreign material to collect. Also rotation of the locking element 3
during locking and unlocking, the end surface 308 and bottom
surface 14 maintain this contact without producing voids. This
reduces the chance of foreign material to jam the lock assembly and
lock system.
[0087] An application of the lock assembly 1 and lock system 302 to
a shackle assembly 412 will now be described with reference to
FIGS. 12 to 16. FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of a shackle
assembly 412, comprising a shackle 414, a pin 416, and a lock
system 302 described above.
[0088] The shackle 414, has pin apertures 418 for receiving the pin
416, and two lock assembly apertures 420 for receiving respective
lock assemblies 1. A first lock pin groove 422 is provided between
the two lock assembly apertures 420.
[0089] The pin 416 has a second lock pin groove 424 transverse to
the main axis of the pin 416. When the shackle assembly 412 is
assembled, as shown in FIGS. 13 to 16, the pin 416 is located to
pass through the pin apertures 418. The first lock pin groove 422
of the shackle 414 and the second lock pin groove 424 of the pin
416 are aligned to form a passage for the lock pin 306 to pass
through, as best illustrated in FIG. 15. The lock pin 306 prevents
the pin 416 from moving out of the pin apertures 418, thereby
retaining the pin 416 relative to the shackle 414.
[0090] The lock pin 306, in turn is retained in the passageway
formed by grooves 422 and 424, by the lock assemblies 1 disposed at
the lock assembly apertures 420. The locking ring 7 is fixed to the
lock assembly apertures 420, by welding, press fit, adhesives or
any other suitable method of fixing. The lock pin 306, once in
place in the passageway formed by the grooves 422 and 424 is then
retained in the passageway by locking the lock elements 3 with
respective locking surfaces 5. This is best illustrated in FIG. 16.
As illustrated, the bottom surfaces 14 of the locking elements 3
abut the end surfaces 308 of the lock pin 306, thereby preventing
axial movement of the lock pin 306 along the first lock axis.
[0091] To remove the pin 416 from the shackle 414, either one, or
both of the lock elements 3 are unlocked and removed from the
respective lock assemblies 1. The lock pin 306 is then removed
through either one of the two lock assembly aperture 420. The pin
416 may then be removed from pin apertures 418.
[0092] Although the locking ring 7 has been described as a separate
element fixed to the shackle, it is to be appreciated that other
alternatives for providing a locking surface 5 are possible. For
example, the locking surface 5 may be machined, cast, forged or
hammered directly onto the surfaces of the two lock assembly
apertures.
[0093] Furthermore, although the above application has been
described in relation to retaining a lock pin for a pin of a
shackle assembly, the lock assembly 1 may have broader application.
For example, the lock assembly 1 may be used to retain the pin. The
lock assembly may be used as part of a retention mechanism for a
shroud, tooth, adaptors including, but not limited to ground
engagement tools, and drag line buckets.
[0094] A further such application of the lock assembly 1 used in a
lock system 500 for connecting a shroud 502 to a bucket lip 504 is
shown in FIG. 17. Similar to the earlier embodiment, the lock
assembly 1 (comprising the rotatable locking element 3 and locking
surface) is arranged to retain a retaining member (in the form of
locking staple 506) in locked position within passage 508 that is
formed by aligned through holes formed in the shroud 502 and lip
504. Insertion of the staple into passage 508 prevents the release
of the shroud from the lip. The lock assembly is arranged to locate
over the bridge 510 of the staple and is disposed within a recess
of the passage. The locking surface 5 is formed on a ring fixed to
the shroud 502 (but could be otherwise made integral with the
shroud) and locking of the locking element 3 to the locking surface
5 prevents release of the staple from components.
[0095] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is
referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission
that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge
in the art, in Australia or any other country.
[0096] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the
particular embodiments described in this application, which are
intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications
and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and
scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of
the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing
descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to
fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present
disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended
claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such
claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is
not limited to particular methods which can, of course, vary. It is
also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the
purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not
intended to be limiting.
[0097] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various
embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein
for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be
made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein
are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit
being indicated by the following claims.
* * * * *